Obesity – A Growing Problem

The accelerating rate of obesity among Asians, especially children, is indeed alarming. If left unchecked, it will soon become the major cause of preventable death. Once obesity develops in childhood or adolescence, there is an increased chance that it will persist into adult life, and that is why it is important for overweight people to lose weight.

The phenomenal increase in the levels of obesity among children can be attributed to unhealthy eating habits. The food we eat is extremely high in calories and fat, and more often than not, children tend to prefer processed foods over fresh foods. Moreover, more and more people tend to eat out at restaurants and fast food outlets nowadays. Fast food contains more calories and a single meal at a fast-food outlet provides a person with the total number of calories he needs of an entire day. There are numerous vending machines in many schools selling carbonated drinks, while school canteens offer students unhealthy food choices.

Today, as a result of technological advancements and conveniences, we tend to be inactive and lead sedentary lifestyles. Children spend hours in front of televisions and play computer games. Many children are not active enough to use up the energy provided by the food they consume. The many conveniences which are available such as elevators, cars, and the Internet reduce the level of physical activity. The lack of physical activity means fewer calories are being burned, leading to weight gain and obesity. The lack of physical education classes in schools for children further compounds the problem.

Obesity has many attendant risks and effects. If you think that the bulging mass of fat under your arms or in your belly, thighs, and other parts of your anatomy is the only effect of obesity, then you are sadly mistaken. Obesity is not merely a cosmetic problem that denies you the pleasure of looking smart and fit. It is a health hazard that puts you at risk of developing various life-threatening diseases. Many serious medical conditions have been linked with obesity, including heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, cancer, and stroke. Obese people are also likely to feel depressed as they often become objects of ridicule.

The best way to avoid obesity and its effects are to maintain a healthy weight through healthy eating habits and regular exercise. Children should avoid eating fast food and junk food. They should also exercise regularly and be active throughout the day. At the same time, they should avoid watching too much television or using the computer for hours at a stretch.

Children must realize that if they take in more calories than they burn, they will gain weight. On the other hand, if they burn more calories than they ingest, they will lose weight.